Dental implants are designed for the person who has one or more missing teeth and want a replacement that will look, feel and function like their own natural teeth. Implants regain the patient's ability to function as they did before: eating their choice of foods, speaking and laughing with people, having a pleasing smile, as well as maintaining facial contouring and structure that may have deteriorated with time due to missing teeth. Dental Implants have virtually given back to many patients the simple joys of life and the personal confidence that they are searching for.

Dental implants never slip or make embarrassing noises that advertise the fact that you have "false teeth," and never decay like teeth anchoring fixed bridges. Because dental implants fuse with the jawbone, bone loss is generally not a problem.

Anatomy of A Dental Implant

A dental implant designed to replace a single tooth is composed of three parts: the titanium implant that fuses with the jawbone; the abutment, which fits over the portion of the implant that protrudes from the gum line; and the crown, which is created by a prosthodontist or restorative dentist and fitted onto the abutment for a natural appearance.
The Surgical Procedure

Implants are tiny titanium posts which are surgically placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. They act as “root substitutes” for the future placement of artificial teeth. These titanium fixtures can support crown, bridges, or dentures and can be used to replace single or multiple teeth. Bone surrounding the implants bond or fuse with the surrounding bone, becoming a solid foundation for the replacement teeth. Dr. Schuman will sometimes place another component on top of the implant which will protrude slightly through the gum tissue.

The placement of dental implants is a gentle, non-traumatic surgical procedure carried out in one or two phases, depending on certain factors which Dr. Schuman will explain to you during the consultation visit. Dr. Schuman works closely with your restorative dentist who custom makes and fits your new teeth. The entire process typically takes between 3 - 6 months. Most patients find they have minimal disruption in their normal routine. Dr. Schuman will review the time required for treatment and give you a detailed outline of the process.

Dental Implants vs. Conventional Dentures

Implants can be used to replace one missing tooth so that the replacement looks and feels natural (a). Also, two or more implants can serve as a stable support for the replacement of many teeth (b).

Many patients who have selected dental implants describe a quality of life that is much more comfortable and secure than the lifestyle endured by those with fixed bridges or removable dentures. Dentures often make a person feel and look older than they are, cause embarrassment in social situations when they slip and click, and restrict the everyday pleasure of eating comfortably.

When they count the benefits they enjoy as a result of their dental implants, patients say their implants eliminate the day-to-day frustrations and discomfort of ill-fitting dentures. They allow people to enjoy a healthy and varied diet without the restrictions many denture wearers face. With a sense of renewed self-confidence, many people rediscover the excitement of an active lifestyle shared with family and friends and the chance to speak clearly and comfortably with co-workers. For all these reasons, people with dental implants often say they feel better... they look better... they live better.

Dental Implants Are A Team Effort

Dental implants combine the best of modern science and technology, including a team approach spanning several disciplines.

A successful implant requires that all parties involved — the patient; the restorative dentist, who makes the crown for the implant; and the oral and maxillofacial surgeon, who surgically places the implant, follow a careful plan of treatment. All members of the implant team stay in close contact with each other to make sure everyone clearly understands what needs to be done to meet the patient's expectations.

Are You a Candidate For Dental Implants?

Whether you are a young, middle-aged or older adult; whether you need to replace one tooth, several teeth, or all your teeth, there is a dental implant solution for you. With the exception of growing children, dental implants are the solution of choice for people of all ages, even those with health concerns.